What makes a good studio mic? Whilst the frequency response is important, there are many other contributing factors and stand-out features to look for when looking for one of the best studio microphones.

If you are looking for the best microphone for gaming, discord, conferencing, voice acting, voice-overs, guitar amps, vocals, music, and all-around studio recording, this article covers all of the above!

• Audio-Technica AT2020 USB+
• Blue Yeti Nano
• Blue Yeti USB Microphone
• AKG Pro Audio P220
• Rode NT1-A-MP Stereo Studio Vocal Cardioid Condenser Microphone
• Aston Microphones Spirit Large Diaphragm Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
• Shure MV7
• Lauten Audio LA220 
• LCT-440-Pure Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
• Shure SM7B
• AKG Pro Audio C214 Professional Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
• LCT540 Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
• Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone
• Neumann TLM 102 Condenser Microphone
• Neumann TLM 103 Condensor Microphone

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ (Best Studio Microphones By Audio Technica)

The Audio-Technica AT2020 is the definition of value for money as it is one of the best studio microphones overall, at a very affordable price.

If you are just starting out as a producer of music from your bedroom or home studio, or want to record your first podcast, the AT2020 is an excellent beginner microphone to start with.

This is a unidirectional condenser microphone that is plug-and-play with its USB connector. It offers superb audio recording thanks to its A/D converter with 16 bit, 44.1/48-kilohertz sampling rate.

It also has a headphone port with volume control, and mix control which allows you to blend your microphone signal and prerecorded audio.

This mic has zero latency, industry-standard frequency response (20Hz–20kHz), and several useful accessories included (Pivoting stand mount for 5/8″-27 threaded stands; 5/8″-27 to 3/8″-16 threads.

Comes bundled with an adapter, a soft protective pouch, a tripod desk stand, a 10′ (3.1 m), and a USB cable).

The AT2020 is the perfect beginner microphone for singers, songwriters, podcasters, voice-over artists, field recorders, and home studio musicians.

Blue Yeti Nano USB Microphone (Best Studio Microphones By Blue Yeti)

The Blue Yeti Nano, like its bigger brother the standard Yeti, has a frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz and is highly regarded as one of the best studio microphones in its price range.

The Yeti Nano is an omnidirectional mic that delivers excellent sound considering its small size.

For just under $100 (at the time of writing), you can get your hands on a professional studio mic, which is perfect for recording vocals, podcasting, game streaming, Skype calls, or YouTube.

Also, check out this bundle with a Knox Gear Boom Arm, Shock Mount, and Pop Filter included:

Blue Yeti USB Microphone (Best Studio Microphones)

Why is the Blue Yeti Microphone so popular? Certainly, the price is one factor in its success.

The Blue Yeti represents excellent value for a professional studio microphone. It is also built with the industry standard frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz, covering every frequency that humans can hear.

‘Yeti is a premium USB microphone that produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for music, podcasts, Twitch streaming, YouTube videos, and Zoom calls.

With advanced Blue VO!CE* software, Yeti makes it easier than ever to achieve a professional on-stream sound quality with enhanced broadcast vocal effects, advanced voice modulation, and HD audio samples.’

The Blue Yeti is also unique in that it has four pickup patterns that offer incredible flexibility. There are inbuilt studio controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain, and an included desktop stand.

You can also connect the yeti directly to a mic stand or boom arm. Another stand-out feature of this studio mic is the sheer amount of color options on offer.

The mic is currently available in black, blue, pink, red, silver, teal, white-mist, and white. If you are building a sleek and stylish home studio, the Blue Yeti will look right at home with its professional and modern design.

AKG PRO Audio P220 (Best AKG Studio Mic)

The AKG is one of the most popular studio microphones for recording both vocals and guitar. It has a stellar ​​Audio frequency response of  20 – 20,000 Hz and represents excellent value for a cardioid studio mic. 

The P220 is a lightweight yet rugged unidirectional mic that comes with an aluminum case and a spider shock mount. It also has a bass cut-off filter setting  (300 Hz – 12 dB/octave), and a switchable 20dB attenuation pad.

The P220 represents excellent value and quality and would be an excellent choice for your first microphone. It could also be the only microphone your studio ever needs. 

Rode NT1-A (Best Studio Microphones)

The Rode NT1-A is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone ideal for recording vocals, acoustic guitar, and piano.

It has a warm and detailed sound that captures every nuance of the performance making it a professional and high-quality microphone.

The NT1-A also has a low self-noise level, which means that it is quiet when recording, making it perfect for recording in a home studio environment.

It comes with a shock mount and pop shield, making it easy to set up and use immediately. Other features include:

• Large 1” capsule with a gold-plated diaphragm. Maximum SPL is 137 dB SPL 
• Cardioid polar pattern -True Condenser (externally biased) 
• Ultra-low noise, self-noise of only 5dB (A) 
• Nickel-plated body 
• Unidirectional
• Unrivaled low distortion 
• High SPL capability
• One microphone in the box! But can be used as a stereo-matched-pair 

Aston Microphones Origin Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The Aston Origin is a high-performance cardioid condenser microphone utilizing a one-inch (1″) gold evaporated capsule. One feature that stands out immediately on the Aston Origin Mic is the waveform design.

The wave-form spring head is an interesting design that gives it a unique look and also delivers an unprecedented degree of protection to the heart of the microphone (the capsule).

The shock-resistant wave-form design allows the head of the mic to distort if given a heavy knock, and then return to its normal position, without any damage. It also offers a degree of off-axis rejection, helping to eliminate unwanted artifacts from your recordings.

To add to the uniqueness of the Aston origin, there are also custom molded end caps with integrated XLR and a universal stand thread adaptor.

Because the internal shock absorption system is so good, you can mount the microphone directly to a stand via this built-in thread and interchangeable thread adapter with outstandingly low handling noise.

The Aston also has a built-in pop filter and looks virtually indestructible, making it a viable mic for travel purposes, and even stage use. At just under $200, the Aston isn’t the cheapest on our list, but it is one of the best cost-to-quality purchases in the microphone world.

With a host of positive reviews, this UK-made microphone speaks for itself, if you’ll pardon the pun.

• Wave-form mesh head – this unique design provides shock absorption to protect the capsule, with elastic mesh memory. 
• Built-in pop filter using the latest stainless steel mesh-knit technology. 
• Direct-to-stand microphone mounting option.
• 2mm, solid stainless steel, laser-cut, and etched chassis.
• Capsule – The Aston Sound – developed by professional artists, engineers, and producers 
• Hi-Spec PCB and electronic components. 
• Friendly packaging. Well-designed, re-usable and recyclable packaging

Shure MV7 Dynamic USB / (Best Studio Microphones / XLR Microphone)

The Shure MV7 is similar to the well-known Shure SM7B Mic, at a considerably lower price point. This is a professional studio microphone with the added benefit of having both a USB and XLR connector.

The headphone output is an equally valuable feature. This mic does not require phantom power and has plug-and-play functionality due to the USB port. It can be updated via firmware updates when available and comes with a micro USB cable to USB-C, and one micro USB cable to USB-A.

At $249, the Shure MV7 represents good value for a professional studio mic with Shure’s premium build quality. This is a rugged and sturdy microphone that should last you for many years in the studio with regular recording use.

Features

• USB OR XLR CONNECTIONS – Dual USB/XLR output allows digital or analog recording 
• CLOSE MIC APPLICATIONS – Great for a variety of recording applications.
• INTUITIVE TOUCH PANEL CONTROLS – Intuitive touch panel for control over gain, monitoring volume, headphone mix, and mic muting 
• BUILT-IN HEADPHONE OUTPUT – The Built-in headphone output allows for direct headphone monitoring while recording 
• RICH and NATURAL VOCAL REPRODUCTION – Optimized frequency response for rich and natural vocal reproduction 
• ShurePlus MOTIV DESKTOP APPLICATION – Provides access to audio processing, Auto-Level Mode automatically adjusts gain and compression settings, switchable EQ filters to adjust audio tone color, and options to save custom user presets 
• ALL-MeTAL CONSTRUCTION – Rugged and professional all-metal construction provides outstanding reliability 

Lauten Audio Black LA-220 Large Diaphragm (Best Studio Microphones / Condenser Mic)

The Lauten is another step up in the professional microphone world, at an extremely competitive and affordable price.

If you were looking to get a medium-priced, high-quality studio microphone, then the Lauten Audio LA-220 is an excellent choice, that is perfect for vocals, instruments, voice-overs, interviews, podcasts, and more.

‘The LA-220 is an articulate and full-bodied FET condenser microphone that punches far above its weight.

This sonically flexible design is equipped with two dedicated filters for analog sound-shaping, a transformer-balanced output for classic harmonic saturation and warmth, and an ultra-low-noise USA-made JET for powerful, present sound.

Immediate analog sound-shaping comes courtesy of the LA-220’s two onboard filters. This allows you to shape sounds at the source, removing the need to change microphones to get the sound you want. Add warmth to a bright vocal or remove harshness and boominess from an acoustic guitar at the flip of a switch.’

The LA-220 signal path is also populated with high-resolution, low-distortion polypropylene capacitors and resistors, a US-made JFET, and a vintage-inspired output transformer.

The result is a powerful, present, mix-ready sound without the high noise floor of many classic microphones. This mic comes with a shock mount and microphone bag.

Alternatively, if you are an instrumentalist and want a pair of high-quality studio microphones that are ideal for recording a variety of instruments, then the LA-120s are designed exactly for that purpose.

You can also look into the LA-320 tube condenser mic by Lauten, with its flight case, power supply, shock mount, and 5-pin cable included.

The 320 is another professional mic that is ideal for studio vocals, but it is almost twice the price of the LA-220 ($678 at the time of writing).

LCT-440-Pure Large-Diaphragm Condenser Mic (Best Studio Microphones)

Lauten takes it up another notch with their LCT-440, a pure large-diaphragm condenser microphone for highly detailed, nuanced recordings This microphone is aptly called ‘pure’ as it does not have as many boosted frequencies in the 8-10kHz range as the 220 does.

It is more of a ‘flat’ and neutral response and is therefore well suited to recording in the studio. It also features a very low self-noise value and handles ear-shattering sound pressure levels.

The gold-layered 1″ true condenser capsule records your signal with an impressive amount of depth, getting the clarity and nuances out of vocals and instruments every time. Besides the shock mount, windshield, and leatherette bag, you’ll get a magnetic pop filter that perfectly integrates with the microphone’s design.

Features:

• Condenser, externally polarized 
• Polar pattern: Cardioid 
• Transducer Ø: 25.4 mm, 1 in 
• Operating principle: Pressure gradient transducer
• Sensitivity: 27.4 mV/Pa, -31.2 dBV/Pa 
• Equivalent noise level: 7 dB (A) 
• Max. SPL for 0.5 % THD: 140 dBSPL 
• Dimensions: 138 x 52 x 36 mm, 5.43 x 2.04 x 1.42 inch 
• Net weight: 310 g / 10.9 oz
• Dynamic range: 133 dB 
• Internal impedance: 110 ohms
• Load impedance: 1,000 ohms 
• Supply voltage: 48 V +/- 4 V 
• Current consumption: 2.63 mA 
• Gold-plated 3-pin XLR

For a full breakdown and comparison of the LCT-220 and LCT-440, check out the following:

Shure SM7B (Best Studio Microphones)

The Shure Sm7B is one of the most popular studio microphones for podcasts and interviews. It has become the industry standard for recording voice, similar to the Shure SM58 which set the standard for the stage.

If you are looking for a premium and professional studio microphone, the SM7B is one of the best-selling and high-quality mics you can buy.

• ONE MICROPHONE FOR EVERYTHING – Studio Recording, Home Recording, Podcasting, and Streaming. The SM7B Is Trusted By The world’s Leading Vocalists, Podcasters, and Streamers. 
• STUDIO VOCAL RECORDING – The SM7B’s Dynamic Cartridge With Smooth, Wide-range Frequency Response Produces Exceptionally Clean and Natural Reproduction Of Both Music and Speech. 
• The SM7B Air Suspension Shock Isolation and Pop Filter Eliminate Both Mechanical Noise And Breathiness. So Words Get Through And The Rest Stays Out Of The Mix. 
• STREAMING CONTENT – Professional Live Streaming Starts With A Microphone Capable Of Capturing Exceptionally Clean And Natural Reproduction Of Both Music And Speech. The SM7B Has Been A Pioneer In Such Abilities For Decades. 
• PROFESSIONAL XLR CONNECTION – The XLR Connection Along With An Audio Interface Allows You More Control Over The Sound — Thus A Better Overall Sound Quality. At least 60dB of gain is recommended to get that iconic warm and balanced tone most commonly associated with the SM7B. 
• CLASSIC CARDIOID PATTERN WITH UNIFORM CAPTURE – The SM7B Cardioid Pattern Is Designed To Reject Off-axis Audio.
• SHIELD YOUR SOUND – We Added Advanced Electromagnetic Shielding To Defeat Hum From Computer Monitors And Other Studio Equipment.

AKG Pro Audio C214 (Best Studio Microphones)

A pro-studio microphone from AKG, the C214 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that is great for recording vocals, guitar amps, and drums.

It has a cardioid polar pattern, which means that it picks up sound from the front and rejects sound from the sides and rear, making it perfect for isolating sound sources.

The C214 also has a switchable bass-cut filter and -20dB pad, allowing it to handle different types of audio sources. The microphone utilizes a high-end one-inch capsule with an integrated suspension for optimal audio performance.

Features:

• Sonic Character Of The C414 at a more affordable price-point
• Outstanding Dynamic Range And Ultralow Noise For Close-Up Recording Of High-Output Sources Of Up To 156Db Spl 
• Switchable 20Db Attenuator And Bass-Cut Filter For Close-Up Recording And Reduction Of Proximity Effect 
• Integrated Suspension To Reduce Mechanical Noise And Vibration From Stage
• AKG’s Legendary 1″ Edge-Terminated Large Diaphragm Sound 
• Outstanding Dynamic Range (up to 156 dB SPL, Ultra-Low Noise) 
• Integrated Suspension to reduce mechanical Noise 
• Switchable 20 dB Attenuation Pad and Low Cut Switch 
• Rugged double mesh Grill for high RF immunity but unaffected Acoustics 
• Spider-type Shock Mount and metal Carrying Case included

LCT540 Subzero Large-Diaphragm (Best Studio Microphones)

The Lewitt LCT 540 subzero is a large diaphragm condenser microphone with a self-noise value below the threshold of human hearing. Specialized in ultra-detailed recording, it captures every nuance of your performance.

The LCT 540 Ssubzero comes with a shock mount, magnetic pop filter, windshield, military-grade protective case, and leatherette carrying bag.

This mic creates ultra-resolution sonic images, has an excellent transient response, and is overall one of the most professional and premium large diaphragm studio condenser microphones in its price range.

Features:

• Condenser, polarized 
• Polar pattern: Cardioid 
• Transducer Ø: 25 mm, 1 in 
• Operating principle: Pressure gradient transducer 
• Sensitivity: 41 mV/Pa, -28dBV/Pa
• Equivalent noise level: 4 dB (A) 
• Max. SPL for 0.5 % THD: 136 dBSPL, 0 dB pre-attenuation 
• Pre-attenuation pad: 0 dB, -6 dB, -12 dB
• Low-cut filter: linear, 80 Hz (6 dB/oct), 160 Hz (6 dB/oct)
• Integrated clipping indicator and clipping history
• Automatic attenuation

Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Mic (Best Studio Microphones)

This versatile studio performer may be used with confidence in a wide variety of professional miking applications.

Featuring direct-coupled balanced outputs for clean signals in high-output conditions, the microphone is free of the distortion associated with conventional transformer-coupled outputs.

Its fast response to transients contributes to the open, transparent reproduction of even the most difficult-to-capture instruments.

The AT4053b consists of two modular subassemblies: an AT4900b-48 body and an AT4053b-EL hypercardioid head capsule (both available separately).

Additional interchangeable capsules are available in omnidirectional (AT4049b-EL) and cardioid (AT4051b-EL).’

• Specially engineered to meet the most critical acoustic requirements of professional recording, broadcast, and sound reinforcement 
• Hypercardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of the desired sound source 
• Direct-coupled, balanced output results in a clean signal even under high-output conditions 
• Transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and provides superior correlation of high-speed transients 
• Switchable 80 Hz hi-pass filter and 10 dB pad

Neumann TLM 102 (Best Studio Microphones)

‘The Neumann TLM 102 is a compact, large-diaphragm studio microphone that offers legendary Neumann sound at an affordable price. It is one of the best studio microphones available in 2023.

It boasts a maximum sound pressure level of 144 dB, which permits the recording of percussion, drums, amps, and other very loud sound sources. Quieter instruments also benefit from the TLM 102’s very fast transient response.’

When it comes to vocals and speech, the TLM 102 shines. A slight boost above 6 kHz provides an excellent presence for voice in the overall mix.

Up to 6 kHz, the frequency response is extremely linear, ensuring minimal coloration and a clearly defined bass range. This is an ideal microphone for professional projects in studios.

• Large-diaphragm microphone with cardioid directional characteristic (pressure gradient transducer) 
• Compact Neumann design 
• Very high maximum sound pressure level (144 dB) 
• A slight presence boost above 6 kHz helps vocals to shine in the mix
• Transformerless circuitry
• Available in two finishes: nickel and matte black
• Includes a stand mount

Neumann TLM 103 (Best Studio Microphones)

‘The award-winning TLM 103 is the ideal large diaphragm microphone for all professional and semi-professional applications requiring the utmost in sound quality.’

This is a high-end microphone ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and orchestras, and is one of the best studio microphones to purchase in 2023.

It has a large diaphragm condenser capsule that provides a clear, detailed sound and wide frequency response. It also has a classic, elegant design, making it a great addition to any studio setup.

• Large-diaphragm cardioid microphone derived from the classic U 87 microphone
• Pressure gradient transducer with one-diaphragm capsule
• Transformerless circuitry with high SPL capability
• Extremely low self-noise: 7 dB-A
• Available in satin nickel and matte black 
• Delivery includes an SG 103 swivel mount and a wooden jeweler’s box 
• Balanced sound with enhanced presence
• Extremely low self-noise: only 7 dB-A

How to Record In a Home Studio Setup?

If you need home studio ideas and want to record vocals or instruments, then one of the best studio microphones is a start.

With microphones becoming cheaper and more readily available thanks to online shopping marketplaces such as Amazon, it has never been easier to record music or podcasts from home.

Nowadays, all you need is a laptop running some recording software and a free USB port for your microphone.

Best Free DAWS

There are several DAWS (software for recording music) available as free downloads, and one of the best and most popular, Logic Pro, is available as a free trial for a 3-month period.

Other great free DAWs include Audacity, Garage Band, and Pro Tools Intro.

You can also try Cubase for 60 days, Reaper for 60 days, and Ableton Live for 90 days. In this way, as a musician on a budget, you can try many different professional DAWS, record your music, and not pay a dime! 

Consider supporting your favorite DAW by purchasing it once you have tried a few and decided which one you prefer. For more information about the best DAW software and VST instruments both free and paid, check out the following:

Best Daw software for creating music (2023)

Best Free VST Plugins

Best Paid VSTs

Conclusion

In the realm of studio recording, the microphone you choose can significantly impact the quality of your sound.

The Shure SM7B stands out as an iconic choice for vocals, delivering exceptional clarity when paired with a proficient preamp and sound engineer.

While the quest for the ultimate microphone for vocal recording remains ongoing, some microphones consistently rise to the top, surprising even seasoned professionals.

In conclusion, while the best studio microphones may vary based on individual needs and budget, investing in a quality mic is paramount for capturing the true essence of vocals and instruments in a studio setting.

Related Posts:

The Best Ribbon Microphones & Preamps: Budget to Pro

The Best Dynamic Microphones – Vocals and Instruments (Complete Guide)